Whittaker Moss Primary School in Rochdale, Lancashire, was inspected on 8 and 9 November 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a strong reputation for valuing each pupil as an individual, fostering an inclusive environment where all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are supported to achieve their best. The staff are dedicated and caring, helping pupils settle in and develop confidence. The school has high expectations for academic achievement, and most pupils enjoy learning and perform well.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and form strong friendships, contributing to a positive school atmosphere. The early years' children engage in collaborative play, demonstrating excellent social skills. The school promotes a sense of pride among pupils, who display good manners and kindness towards others, including visitors. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as rugby and coding clubs, are available, encouraging pupils to explore their interests and develop as proactive citizens. Year 6 pupils take on leadership roles, serving as role models within the school community.
The curriculum is ambitious and rooted in early years learning, with pupils achieving high results in national assessments. The school has identified key knowledge that pupils should acquire over time, ensuring that learning builds on prior knowledge in most subjects. However, there are a few subjects where the specific knowledge needed for future learning has not been clearly defined, which can lead to gaps in understanding for some pupils. The school is aware of this and is working to address it.
Reading is a priority, starting in the early years, where children engage with songs and rhymes to develop phonemic awareness. While there is a slight delay in the introduction of phonics in the Reception Year, most children learn effectively once the program begins. However, variations in phonics instruction delivery among staff can lead to inconsistent experiences for pupils, with some not mastering the phonics code as quickly as they could. The school is committed to providing additional support for those who struggle.
The needs of pupils with SEND are quickly identified, and appropriate support is provided to ensure they can learn effectively. The school emphasizes inclusion, allowing these pupils to participate fully in school life. Most pupils are focused during lessons and demonstrate respect for their surroundings, contributing to a conducive learning environment.
The school actively prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, encouraging community involvement through charity work and providing opportunities for personal development. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, noting the caring atmosphere and the value placed on their children's education. The school maintains strong relationships with the community and involves parents in workshops to enhance their understanding of their children's learning.
Governors are knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring that staff are not overwhelmed by new initiatives and that pupils remain the priority in all school activities. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistency in phonics instruction and clarifying the specific knowledge required in certain subjects. The school is committed to addressing these areas to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
